Southwest Florida physicians and medical practices provided more than $9 million in pro bono services to patients in need during 2023 through the WeCare program of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades.

The level of generosity was almost $2 million more than the program provided in 2022.

WeCare connects qualifying individuals with medical services free of charge through a large network of volunteer providers and physician corporate entities. More than 300 individual providers and 30 organizations partner with United Way through the WeCare program.

In 2023, more than 300 patients ages 16-87 were treated by WeCare providers. The top five individual providers for 2023 were Dr. Tadeu Frantz Ambros, Dr. Liliana Bustamante, Dr. Anthony Anfuso, Dr. Graciela Garton and Dr. Samith Sandadi. The top five corporate partners were Lee Health, Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Advocate Radiation Oncology, GenesisCare, and Radiology Regional.

More than 50 medical offices refer patients to the program with the top three being Family Health Centers, Lee Health, and Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute.

WeCare is contracted through the Florida Department of Health, Voluntary Health Care Provider Program (VHCPP).

To participate in the program, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Be referred by a medical provider, hospital or specialist.

• Have a severe medical condition that a primary care provider cannot manage.

• Qualify as 200 percent under the federal poverty limit.

• Have no health insurance.

• Be a Lee or Hendry county resident.

For more information about the WeCare program and United Way, please visit UnitedWayLee.org/WeCare.

About United Way

In addition to raising funds for human service organizations in our community, United Way promotes partnerships and collaborations among agencies, helping them to work together focusing on issues that continue to improve lives. United Way’s mission as a volunteer-driven organization is dedication to improving the quality of life for all people in our community. United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades was established in 1957 and over $221 million has been raised and distributed since that time. For more information, please call 239-433-2000 or visit UnitedWayLee.org.